Cycling Road Rules and Equipment

Rules

Road racing varies in distance from 100km for women’s events to 180km for men’s events. They are held along a marked-out course on roads and streets.

The winner is the first cyclist to cross the finish line.

Competitors may receive assistance with repairs from officials as well as from members of their team, however competitors are not permitted to push another cyclist along.

Equipment

Bike

Road race bikes are made of carbon fibre, kevlar, titanium, aluminium alloy or steel alloyand weigh between 8 and 10kg. The tyres are thin and smooth which is optimal for riding on asphalt. They are fitted with brakes and gears that are necessary for the type of terrain and close proximity of other riders.

Helmet

Cyclists are required to wear helmets. The tail on some is designed to be aerodynamic to reduce any drag. Most helmets have ventilation holes to allow air flow around the skull, keeping the cyclist cool.